Thinking about knee high boots

Taller boots are coming back, it seems, and it's got me reviewing what I have and considering changes. If anyone cares to indulge me and give a critical eye here, I'd appreciate it!

I have six pairs of knee-high boots, and most of them are at least five years old. Two pairs are going on 10. None of them excite me anymore, with the exception of the newest pair, the convertible Ugg Cortonas, which are a total workhorse for me. I've listed and pictured what I currently own below, listed roughly from most-worn to least-worn.

1. Ugg Cortonas from two years ago. I wear them often, with and without spats. Definite keepers.

2. Taupe Fryes -- still very useful. Maybe 6 yrs old. Very comfy, and great for pulling on over skinnies and thick socks on a winter day. They scrunch a bit when worn, which is nice for an easy casual look with a roomy sweater and skinnies. Unless someone really has a compelling argument against, I'd keep.

3 Black suede/nubuck Cordanis. Again, really comfortable, perfect fit, and have worn like iron, despite the fact that they're probably 10 years old. Good for casual tucking jeans in, etc but not exactly trendy or special. Still useful, I'm inclined to keep to give the Uggs a break now and then, but tell me if they just don't cut it at all.

4 Frye dark red. 4 years old. I like how these look, but the heel height is getting to be an issue for all-day wear. Roomy enough in the leg that I can tuck jeans in them.

5 Peter Kaiser brown boots from maybe 8 years ago? The color is not the most useful for me, as I don't wear much brown. I've wondered about dyeing them black but not sure it's worth the effort. Comfortable and decent fit, albeit a little tight for tucking jeans into them.

6 Frye Julia lace-ups from about 4 years ago. I like them but feel like my style has moved away from this and toward a more streamlined look. Again, the heel height is becoming a comfort issue. I think I only wore them a couple of times last winter. I'm getting to begat less forgiving of any discomfort.

I have trouble purging boots because they are such a financial investment, so I really welcome critical eyes and minds here.

I've been starting to look for something new that is sleeker and streamlined yet still casual, something that will look good with skirts and dresses (encouraging me to wear my winter skirts and dresses more!), as well as jeans.

I looked at these with the question in mind, "would I buy these if I found them shopping today?" And the answer for all of them except the Cortonas is no. However, I don't necessarily think that answer justifies a full boot purge! Usefulness has its place, you know?

So anyway, pardon all the rambling, and if you have any reactions, I'd love to hear what they are, especially Angie if you check in! I'd also welcome any recommendations or Finds for refreshing the collection. If I sell some, that will help me buy a new pair or two!

This post has 6 photos. Photos uploaded by this member are only visible to other logged in members.

If you aren't a member, but would like to participate, please consider signing up. It only takes a minute and we'd love to have you.

8 years ago

Word Lily

Veteran

I think you've answered your own question, at least in regard to numbers 4 and 6. Those heels look really tall.

catgirl

I am on a similar hunt. The Ugg Cortonas are a workhorse for me too, but I'd like some sleek yet rugged OTK boots. I was going to post about suede vs. leather in terms of RATEness and boho edge.

Of these, the red does not seem like you only because I don't see you in a lot of red. I always love red in footwear and jackets, but I so rarely wear it myself, and a boot is a lot of red. I had those same Cordani boots but they were too narrow in the foot and too wide in the calf, or I would still wear them.

Was the heel on the Julia really that high? You know I adored them, but yikes!

Janet

(website)

I know, my heel height tolerance used to be much greater, even just a few years ago! Maybe I'm just walking more now, but I've been trying on some of my orphan shoes today around the house, and yikes, I am just not comfortable in a lot of shoes that I previously had no trouble with. And I'm not just talking about heel height -- some things just seem pinchy or unstable. Is this part of getting older??

Alassë

Regretfully, I think heel height means 4 and 6 need to go. I'm glad you have a couple of still-loved workhorses (1 and 2). If 5 were dyed black, which would be more useful to you of 3 and 5? (Splitting wears issue.)

Laura (rhubarbgirl)

4 and 6 definitely seem the least 'you'. Maybe try to resell them and keep an eye out for something new?

I envision you wearing the new tall shaft short boots (if you follow me) but I guess those would be more for wearing with pants. How often do you wear taller boots? Do you really need more than the pairs you have?

Suz

Let go of 4 to 6 for sure and also 3 when you find a replacement.

Angie

Fashion Stylist

Janet, say goodbye to #4 and #6.

#5 is a big question mark.

As with the others - style them in outfits soonest. Remember that your assessment on them has to be current.

Ok, this is helpful. Thank you, all!

The good thing is, the Fryes in 4 and 6 will probably sell well. Well known names sell better on eBay and the like. Has anyone done Poshmark? I'm wondering if trying to sell through them is worthwhile.

Angie, thanks for the reminder to try them on. I'm going from memory from last winter. Who knows, all the cycling may have changed how things fit in the calf!

Update: the brown Peter Kaisers are going. I couldn't remember whether I wore them last winter. I can't even zip them up over a pair of thin skinny jeans, at least not on my left leg (which has always, weirdly, been larger as well as longer than my right). The right side zips but is uncomfortably tight. I won't be giving up bicycling, so I guess I'd much rather give up those boots.

The black Cordanis are fine. In fact, I like them on my body more than I do when they're just sitting there.

I might give the red Fryes another season. They're high but much better comfort-wise than the Julia's, maybe because they're not so snug and also the heel is more substantial.

Category